The concept of barcode scanning and its use in commercial applications has been around for several decades. The modern barcode system, as we know it today, was first introduced in the early 1970s and has since revolutionized various industries, including retail and inventory management.
The development of barcodes and barcode scanners can be attributed to a collaboration between two individuals: Norman Joseph Woodland and Bernard Silver. In the late 1940s, Woodland and Silver began working on a system to automatically capture product information at the checkout counter. They devised a method of encoding information into a series of lines and spaces of varying widths, which could be quickly and accurately read by a scanner.
The first barcode, a bull’s eye symbol, was successfully scanned by Woodland in 1971 using laser technology. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that barcode scanning technology became widely adopted in the retail industry. With advancements in scanning technology, the cost-effectiveness of barcode scanners, and the standardization of barcode symbologies, the use of barcodes expanded rapidly.
Today, barcode scanning has become an integral part of various industries, from retail and logistics to healthcare and manufacturing. It has greatly improved efficiency, accuracy, and speed in tasks such as inventory management, product tracking, and point-of-sale operations. The barcode system continues to evolve, with advancements like 2D barcodes and mobile barcode scanning applications further expanding its capabilities.
Stock taking scanners come in various forms, including handheld scanners, mobile devices with built-in scanning capabilities, and stationary scanners integrated with checkout systems or warehouse management systems. Some advanced scanners may also support additional features like wireless connectivity, batch scanning, or compatibility with other technologies such as RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification).Honeywell Scanning & Mobility: Honeywell offers a wide range of barcode scanners and mobile computing devices for inventory management, including handheld scanners, mobile computers, and wearable scanners.There are numerous suppliers of stock taking scanners and related equipment in the retail technology market. Some well-known suppliers and manufacturers include:
Honeywell Scanning & Mobility: Honeywell offers a wide range of barcode scanners and mobile computing devices for inventory management, including handheld scanners, mobile computers, and wearable scanners.Zebra Technologies: Zebra is a leading provider of barcode scanning and data capture solutions. They offer a variety of handheld scanners, mobile computers, and fixed scanners suitable for stock taking and inventory management.
Datalogic: Datalogic provides a comprehensive range of barcode scanners, mobile computers, and imaging systems for inventory management and retail applications.
Symbol (a subsidiary of Zebra Technologies): Symbol is a brand of barcode scanners and mobile computing devices that are widely used in retail and other industries for stock taking and inventory management.
CipherLab: CipherLab manufactures a range of barcode scanners, handheld computers, and mobile devices designed for various industries, including retail and logistics.
Opticon: Opticon specializes in barcode scanners and data collection devices. They offer handheld scanners, mobile computers, and companion scanners suitable for inventory management.
Denso Wave: Denso Wave, a subsidiary of Toyota, produces a variety of barcode scanners, mobile computers, and handheld terminals that are utilized in inventory management and retail environments.
These are just a few examples of suppliers in the market. There are other reputable companies that provide stock taking scanners and related solutions. It’s always a good idea to research and evaluate different suppliers based on your specific requirements, budget, and desired features before making a purchasing decision.
